{"product_id":"peacock-snakehead-channa-pulchra","title":"Peacock Snakehead - Channa pulchra","description":"\u003ch1 data-section-id=\"15b4wrp\" data-start=\"376\" data-end=\"414\"\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003ePeacock Snakehead – \u003cem data-start=\"398\" data-end=\"414\"\u003eChanna pulchra\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"77mjg\" data-start=\"416\" data-end=\"428\"\u003eOverview:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"429\" data-end=\"938\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"433\" data-end=\"454\"\u003ePeacock Snakehead\u003c\/strong\u003e is a stunning predatory fish from western Myanmar, admired for its blue-grey body colour, orange-edged fins, speckled face and bold, intelligent behaviour. \u003cstrong data-start=\"611\" data-end=\"629\"\u003eChanna pulchra\u003c\/strong\u003e is one of the more manageable snakeheads in terms of size, but it is still a specialist predator rather than a standard community fish. It is best suited to experienced aquarists who can provide a large, covered aquarium, cooler subtropical conditions and carefully chosen tank mates or a species-only setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"18rclky\" data-start=\"940\" data-end=\"962\"\u003eKey Identification:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"963\" data-end=\"1242\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"963\" data-end=\"979\"\u003eCommon Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peacock Snakehead\u003cbr data-start=\"997\" data-end=\"1000\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1000\" data-end=\"1016\"\u003eOther Names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blue Snakehead, Coloured Snakehead, Beautiful Snakehead, Myanmar Peacock Snakehead, Pretty Snakehead\u003cbr data-start=\"1117\" data-end=\"1120\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1120\" data-end=\"1140\"\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-start=\"1141\" data-end=\"1157\"\u003eChanna pulchra\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1157\" data-end=\"1160\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1160\" data-end=\"1174\"\u003eFish Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Snakehead \/ Predatory Labyrinth Fish\u003cbr data-start=\"1211\" data-end=\"1214\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1214\" data-end=\"1229\"\u003eWater Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Freshwater\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"13oemwk\" data-start=\"1244\" data-end=\"1271\"\u003eNatural Range \u0026amp; Habitat:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1272\" data-end=\"1565\"\u003eThe Peacock Snakehead is native to \u003cstrong data-start=\"1307\" data-end=\"1318\"\u003eMyanmar\u003c\/strong\u003e, where it was described from the \u003cstrong data-start=\"1352\" data-end=\"1378\"\u003eKyeintali Chaung basin\u003c\/strong\u003e in the Rakhine Yoma region. FishBase lists \u003cem data-start=\"1422\" data-end=\"1438\"\u003eChanna pulchra\u003c\/em\u003e as an obligate air-breathing snakehead, first described by Britz in 2007 from Myanmar. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1567\" data-end=\"1821\"\u003eIn nature, this species is associated with subtropical streams and river habitats rather than permanently hot tropical swamps. Aquarium care should therefore include clean, well-oxygenated water, shaded cover, resting places and a seasonal cooler period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1k4fj4a\" data-start=\"1823\" data-end=\"1850\"\u003eAppearance \u0026amp; Adult Size:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1851\" data-end=\"2241\"\u003ePeacock Snakeheads have an elongated, muscular body with a broad head, large mouth and long dorsal and anal fins. Colour is usually blue-grey to slate, with pale speckling over the head and body, orange or yellow edging to the fins and dark markings that intensify with mood and maturity. The pectoral fins often show attractive banding and colour, giving the fish its “peacock” trade name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2243\" data-end=\"2505\"\u003eAdults usually reach around \u003cstrong data-start=\"2271\" data-end=\"2283\"\u003e25–30 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e, with FishBase listing a maximum of around \u003cstrong data-start=\"2327\" data-end=\"2349\"\u003e30 cm total length\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e This is smaller than many large snakeheads, but still much too large and predatory for ordinary community aquariums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"zee6g1\" data-start=\"2507\" data-end=\"2531\"\u003eAquarium Suitability:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2532\" data-end=\"2927\"\u003eThis species is best for a specialist predator aquarium, subtropical oddball setup or carefully managed species tank. It needs a spacious aquarium with a large footprint, dimmer lighting, wood, caves, robust plants, floating cover and open areas for movement. A tight-fitting lid is essential, as snakeheads are powerful jumpers and air-breathers that may leave the aquarium if given the chance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2929\" data-end=\"3072\"\u003eIt is not suitable for small tanks, warm tropical community aquariums, delicate tank mates or aquariums with any fish small enough to be eaten.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1jzuw08\" data-start=\"3074\" data-end=\"3103\"\u003eRecommended Aquarium Size:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3104\" data-end=\"3460\"\u003eA practical minimum is \u003cstrong data-start=\"3127\" data-end=\"3176\"\u003e300 litres for a single adult or settled pair\u003c\/strong\u003e, with a tank footprint of at least \u003cstrong data-start=\"3212\" data-end=\"3230\"\u003e120 cm x 45 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e recommended. Practical Fishkeeping suggests a tank around \u003cstrong data-start=\"3289\" data-end=\"3319\"\u003e100 x 45 x 45 cm or larger\u003c\/strong\u003e for this species, but a larger aquarium is safer for long-term adult care and territorial behaviour. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3462\" data-end=\"3566\"\u003eGroups should only be attempted in much larger aquariums with many hiding places and careful monitoring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"pl4gsq\" data-start=\"3568\" data-end=\"3588\"\u003eWater Conditions:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3589\" data-end=\"4074\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3589\" data-end=\"3605\"\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18–25°C, with a cooler seasonal rest strongly recommended\u003cbr data-start=\"3663\" data-end=\"3666\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3666\" data-end=\"3673\"\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 6.0–7.5\u003cbr data-start=\"3681\" data-end=\"3684\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3684\" data-end=\"3697\"\u003eHardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Soft to moderately hard; stable conditions preferred\u003cbr data-start=\"3750\" data-end=\"3753\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3753\" data-end=\"3774\"\u003eAdditional Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is not a fish for permanently hot water. Practical Fishkeeping recommends relatively cool maintenance around \u003cstrong data-start=\"3889\" data-end=\"3900\"\u003e20–22°C\u003c\/strong\u003e, with warmer summer periods tolerated, while Fishkeeper notes that it is a subtropical species that benefits from a cool winter rest. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4076\" data-end=\"4154\"\u003eLeave an air gap above the water surface, as \u003cem data-start=\"4121\" data-end=\"4129\"\u003eChanna\u003c\/em\u003e breathe atmospheric air.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"3rlnm7\" data-start=\"4156\" data-end=\"4184\"\u003eTemperament \u0026amp; Tank Mates:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4185\" data-end=\"4218\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4185\" data-end=\"4207\"\u003eAquarium Category:\u003c\/strong\u003e Predator\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4220\" data-end=\"4599\"\u003ePeacock Snakeheads are predatory, territorial and can be aggressive towards similar fish. Suitable tank mates, if attempted, must be robust, too large to swallow and able to cope with cooler subtropical conditions. Possible companions in large aquariums may include larger barbs, robust loaches or suitably sized oddball fish, but a species-only setup is often the safest option.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4601\" data-end=\"5055\"\u003eAvoid small fish, shrimp, Cory-type catfish, small plecs, delicate community fish, fin-nippers and aggressive cichlids that may provoke fights. Snakeheads may form pairs, but compatibility is never guaranteed. Conspecific aggression can be serious, and groups require a lot of space and cover; Aquainfo also notes that \u003cem data-start=\"4920\" data-end=\"4936\"\u003eChanna pulchra\u003c\/em\u003e can be aggressive towards its own kind and needs seasonal temperature reduction. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1ah6yd9\" data-start=\"5057\" data-end=\"5068\"\u003eFeeding:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5069\" data-end=\"5399\"\u003ePeacock Snakeheads are carnivorous predators. Offer a varied meaty diet including earthworms, prawns, mussel, cockle, white fish, krill, bloodworm, large brineshrimp, insect larvae and quality carnivore pellets once accepted. Juveniles may take frozen foods readily, while adults should be conditioned onto a varied non-live diet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5401\" data-end=\"5630\"\u003eAvoid routine use of feeder fish, as they can introduce disease, encourage poor feeding habits and offer poor nutritional control. Do not overfeed; mature snakeheads do better on measured meals rather than constant heavy feeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"2vr35r\" data-start=\"5632\" data-end=\"5661\"\u003eBehaviour in the Aquarium:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5662\" data-end=\"6024\"\u003eThis is an intelligent, observant predator that often recognises its keeper and patrols its territory. It may rest under floating plants, inside caves or among wood, then become more active at feeding time. Snakeheads regularly rise to the surface to breathe air, which is normal behaviour. During breeding, pairs may become extremely territorial and protective.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"gyou4p\" data-start=\"6026\" data-end=\"6040\"\u003eCare Notes:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6041\" data-end=\"6503\"\u003eA secure lid is essential, including gaps around pipes and cables. Keep the aquarium covered, shaded and structured with multiple retreats. Provide a seasonal cooler period rather than permanently high tropical temperatures. Do not mix with small fish or ornamental shrimp. Maintain clean water, but avoid excessive current that prevents the fish resting comfortably. This species is not suitable for casual community tanks and should never be released outdoors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"iot6fl\" data-start=\"6505\" data-end=\"6524\"\u003eRecommended For:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6525\" data-end=\"6536\"\u003eExperienced\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1c7763y\" data-start=\"6538\" data-end=\"6554\"\u003eAvailability:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6555\" data-end=\"6611\"\u003eOccasional \/ Specialist predator fish \/ Usually imported\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1x39ni3\" data-start=\"6613\" data-end=\"6633\"\u003eImage Disclaimer:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6634\" data-end=\"6829\"\u003eAll images are a visual representation of the fish you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Natural variation in size, colour, pattern and markings can occur between individual fish.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Warehouse Aquatics","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":43679768936522,"sku":"AG-102761","price":14.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":43679768969290,"sku":"AG-102762","price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large","offer_id":43679769002058,"sku":"AG-102763","price":24.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"X-Large","offer_id":43679769034826,"sku":"AG-102764","price":29.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0623\/1877\/2298\/files\/PeacockSnakehead-Channapulchra_1.jpg?v=1780923470","url":"https:\/\/warehouse-aquatics.co.uk\/products\/peacock-snakehead-channa-pulchra","provider":"Warehouse Aquatics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}